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Exercise May Improve Sleep
By Dr.Lanny Schaffer
Several million Americans have chronic sleep problems and insomnia. Recent
studies show that exercise may improve the quantity and quality of sleep.
Researchers are not sure why exercise may help sleep, but the physical
mechanism may be a change in the balance between the parasympathetic and
sympathetic nervous systems. Stimulating the sympathetic nervous system
causes an increase in heart rate, blood pressure and metabolic rate which
are counter productive to sleep. Stimulation of the parasympathetic
nervous system causes the opposite effects.
During exercise, sympathetic activity increases, but later decreases
relative to parasympathetic activity. This alteration between these two
systems may allow individuals to fall asleep more quickly and sleep more
deeply.
Morning exercise may be more effective at promoting sleep than evening
exercise because of it’s affects on the body’s circadian (day and night)
rhythms. Sleep experts, however, vary regarding timing of exercise.
Most kinds of exercise done at a moderate intensity may be effective in
improving sleep. These include aerobic activity, interval training, and
weightlifting. Stretching has also been shown to aid in better sleep
patterns.
If you are one of the millions of Americans with sleep difficulties try a
little exercise. It might be just what you need to get a better nights
rest.
Summary:Having trouble sleeping. Find out how exercise may help you get a
better nights rest. title:Exercise May Improve Sleep
Having trouble sleeping. Find out how exercise may help you get a better
nights rest. Exercise, sleep, aerobic, interval training, weightlifting,
parasympathetic nervous system, sympathetic nervous system
Dr Lanny Schaffer is an Exercise Physiologist and the President of The
International Fitness Academy. For more cutting edge fitness ideas go to
http://www.aerobic-exercise-coach.com/.
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